Without doubt, Direct to Film technology has been the stand-out disruptor of 2024. In creating the perfect storm - the adoption and application of DTF has gained considerable traction and yet - still remains very much in its infancy. DTF will over the year ahead continue to force the printer, and the garment decoration industry to re-evaluate their production processes. For many manufacturers its emergence, ongoing innovation and eventual automation, will continue to upend both DTG and Screen printing applications and business models.
Staying at the forefront (no easy feat) of the latest innovations in print is essential for commercial success. This means continuously investing and adapting to new technologies, product trends, customer demands and importantly - staying ahead of your competitors. By seeking out the latest advancements in print equipment, software, application techniques, consumables and materials, companies not only enhance their production efficiency but also create unique and high-quality products that stand out in a competitive market.
As the sector evolves, innovations are thick and fast with powderless inks on the horizon and in the early stages of development, alongside automated carousels (capable of 350 T-Shirts per hour). Then there are special effect films and environmental materials, all of which pushes DTF towards adopting a more sustainable, greener future. Heat transfer presses too are being redesigned alongside experimental inks to lower curing temperatures whilst also improving durability, stretch and product handle. In software, white ink is in the spotlight and its use is being manipulated to reduce its application and to improve colour gammat. In doing so, technologists also seek a softer, finer printed output.
The garment decoration sector is in the midst of a seismic shift, this game-changing method is reshaping our perception of on-demand print in an unprecedented way. One of DTF technology's primary merits is its extraordinary versatility, enabling printing on a diverse range of fabrics, from cotton and polyester to blends and synthetics. This liberates the designer, the commercial printer (and the hobbyist) to rationalise their workflow and to venture into new domains with an entry level, affordable technology that can run in parallel with both conventional screen and digital DTG equipment.
Today, Texintel recognises five machines at the helm of this transformation, spearheading the advancement of DTF technology (in no particular order).
Mimaki The All-New Mimaki TxF300 Series was recently launched with two distinct models: TxF300-1600 – This latest flagship model offers an impressive print width of 160cm, perfect for large substrates without compromising on performance. It is tailored for businesses seeking to expand their production capabilities.
The TxF300-75 – Offering high production capacity, the Mimaki TxF300-75 DTF printer is a safe and stable solution that's packed with Mimaki Core Technologies. Print directly onto DTF film or paper with OEKO-TEX certified inks. Featuring a dual printhead and a print width of 75cm, this innovative model delivers printing speeds up to three times faster than its predecessor, the TxF150-75.
Both models in the TxF300 Series utilize Mimaki's cutting-edge technology and ECO PASSPORT-certified inks, ensuring high-quality, skin-friendly prints. These models effectively address common DTF challenges such as ink leakage and sedimentation, offering consistent, reliable performance backed by extended technical support. Read More >>
Hanrun Paper: To meet the demand for high-quality production, improve the productivity of DTF printers, and enhance user experience, Hanrun Paper has launched the Super A-600 DTF Printer. The Super A-600 DTF Printer can be fitted with 2 or 4 EPSON i3200 printheads and has a 4 pass (360*2400dpi) printing speed of up to 22m2/h, offering unrivaled productivity and innovation. It is compatible with RIP software such as CADlink, Photoprint, Maintop. delivering exceptional prints every time. The Super A-600 DTF printer is equipped with a CCD vision system next to the printhead that utilizes CCD image sensing technology to monitor nozzle status.
When there is a broken line in the print, the nozzle is automatically cleaned to improve productivity, further reduce the scrap rate, and make the print accuracy of the printed materials more guaranteed. Read More >>
Ricoh : Ricoh showcased their groundbreaking DTF (Direct-to-Film) Roll to Roll concept, at Printing United Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. This innovative product redefines the boundaries of creativity and high-quality printing, setting a new standard for artists, designers, and high volume production businesses. Key Features Of The Ricoh DTF Roll To Roll Concept. The only DTF printer with Proprietary Industrial Print head technology developed by Ricoh. Unlike many other thin film piezo heads in the market, our bulk piezo heads provide robust, high viscosity inks at higher frequency jetting with advanced reliability.
Superior Print Quality: Experience colour accuracy and detail, thanks to Ricoh’s cutting-edge print heads and image processing technology. Enhanced Durability: The DTF Roll to Roll concept is designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring that your prints maintain their vibrant appearance over time. Versatile Applications: Ideal for a diverse array of uses, including fine art reproductions, custom merchandise, and promotional materials.
New revolutionary wet capping system ensures this printer is always ready to print and is promoted as “the easiest printer in the market to maintain” Quote. Read More >>
